Deep Rose Mossy Saxifrage

Deep Rose Mossy Saxifrage (Saxifraga x arendsii 'Deep Rose') is a small evergreen mat, about 20cm high and 30cm wide, that covers itself in vibrant purple pink cup-shaped flowers each spring. It is a low groundcover for shady borders, rockeries, pots and window boxes, and it is extremely cold hardy.

Why you'll love it

• Jewel bright flowers. Cup-shaped blooms in a vivid purple pink open in abundance in spring and glow against the small green leaves.
• An evergreen mat. Small evergreen leaves form a mounded mat that keeps the spot green long after the flowers fade.
• A shade performer. It does well in shade, especially in hot, dry spots where other flowering plants give up.
• Extremely cold hardy. Frost is no problem, which makes it a reliable choice in cooler districts and alpine style gardens.
• Small enough for anywhere. It fits between pavers, in a rockery, in a window box or tucked among shrubs in a shady border.

Where it works best

Shady borders. Plant 25cm apart along the front of a border so the mats join into a continuous band. It brightens the ground beneath shrubs.

Rockeries and alpine gardens. Tuck it between stones where the mat can spill over the edges. Its low, mounded habit suits gravel beds and dry stone walls.

Pots, window boxes and roof gardens. Compact enough for shallow containers. Keep the mix free draining and the plant watered.

Growing Deep Rose Mossy Saxifrage in Australia

Position and climate. Part shade to shade suits it, especially in hot, dry locations. In cooler climates it will grow in full sun if it gets enough water. It is extremely cold hardy but dislikes hot, humid tropical climates, so it is not a plant for far north Queensland, though it does fine in south east Queensland and southwards.

Soil. Give it free draining soil enriched with compost, and mulch after planting to hold moisture and keep the root zone at an even temperature.

Water and feed. Keep the soil moist while the young plant establishes, and water in dry spells. A slow release fertiliser in spring helps keep the plant healthy.

Pruning. No routine pruning is needed. Remove spent flower heads and any dead patches to keep the mat neat.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Deep Rose Mossy Saxifrage as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small, so plant it out soon after delivery in a sheltered spot, mulch around it and keep it moist while the mat begins to form.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse rockery plants
• Plants for partial shade
• More groundcover plants
• The best groundcovers for shade

Common questions

When does it flower?

Flowers appear in abundance in spring. For the rest of the year it is a neat green mat of small evergreen leaves.

Can it grow in full sun?

In cooler climates, yes, with sufficient water. In hot, dry districts it does better in shade or part shade.

Will it grow in the tropics?

No. It does not like hot, humid tropical climates, so it is not suited to far north Queensland, but it is fine in south east Queensland.